Greek tourism surge drives record job growth and revenue in early 2026

Tourism in Greece continued its rapid expansion in the first quarter of 2026. New jobs in the sector jumped to 17,211 in February, 56,437 in March and 145,209 in April, helping lift overall employment by 1.5% year‑on‑year in 2025. The industry accounted for the largest share of job creation across 13 of the 21 economic sectors, with notable gains for hotel staff, restaurant workers and retail.

Tourist arrivals rose 10.6% in April 2026 compared with the same month a year earlier, and 27.1% higher over the January‑April period. Corresponding tourism receipts reached €1.114 billion in April and €2.791 billion in the first four months, supporting a narrowing of the current‑account deficit. Exports of goods (excluding fuels) grew 12.0% at current prices, while imports rose more modestly, further improving the trade balance.

The continued inflow of visitors is expected to sustain the upward trend through August, laying the groundwork for a new record for both arrivals and earnings in 2026.